Chase Opens; Rí Rá, Artist’s Proof to Depart; Bonaparte Refreshed
By • December 9, 2019 0 1907
The opening of JPMorgan Chase tomorrow, Tuesday, Dec. 10, and last week’s announcement that Rí Rá Irish pub was closing and Artist’s Proof moving to Bethesda, Maryland, aptly tell the tale of Georgetown’s ongoing retail quandary.
In: Chase Branch to Open at Wisconsin & P
Another bank will open Dec. 10 in a building that once housed a classic Georgetown business, beloved by residents and seen in movies. JPMorgan Chase will hang out another Georgetown shingle at Wisconsin Avenue and P Street. The property, at 3217 P St. NW, comes with a parking lot. Across from the Thomas Sweet ice cream parlor, the building housed the famed Neam’s Market for decades. Marvelous Market opened there in 2000 and closed in April of 2014. Except for the occasional pop-up store, the building has been empty for more than five years. (There’s another Chase set to open near Wisconsin and M, next to the Capital One Cafe.)
Out: Rí Rá
Rí Rá, which opened on Dec. 30, 2013, in the former space of Mie N Yu and, before that, Hamburger Hamlet, announced that it would close at the end of January. Meaning “the king of good times,” Rí Rá is a popular and genuine Irish pub at 3125 M St. NW. One of the pub’s centerpieces is a statue of St. Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint, along with its lively clientele and live music.
Moving: Artist’s Proof
Last week, Artist’s Proof owner Peggy Sparks told her clients and friends: “After seven years in Georgetown, the gallery will be relocating to Bethesda, Maryland, in the new year. Your support has been integral to our success, and we hope to continue to assist you with your art needs. In the meantime, it’s full steam ahead with our featured artist and their works on our website and upcoming shows at the W Hotel and various commercial spaces in the District!” Artist’s Proof at 1533 Wisconsin Ave. NW opened in 2014 and was previously located in Cady’s Alley.
Refreshed: Cafe Bonaparte
It was a relief to see that the temporarily closed Cafe Bonaparte has reopened after its facelift. The 16-year-old restaurant has more light and looks new, and the kitchen is open for all to see. The Popal Group, which owns the favorite brunch spot at 1522 Wisconsin Ave. NW, also owns the Berliner at the Georgetown waterfront and Lapis in Adams Morgan.
